Be an Original, Upcycled Vintage Bride — by Guest Mom Starr Keller

One part of Starr Strung that has come to mature quickly over the past year are my bridal jewelry and accessory lines. Specifically, the vintage section gets more attention than I ever thought possible. I know most of you reading are young mothers and aren't planning your wedding, but for any of the brides-to-be out there, here are some thoughts on using vintage jewelry in your wedding.

I have always adored vintage pieces, and can remember the first time my mom ever handed me a family keepsake to have as my own: a three-strand, freshwater pearl necklace with a tiny crystal rose clasp from my great-grandmother. I wouldn't change the necklace one single bit, but it did inspire me to go on a limb and incorporate upcycled vintage pieces into my work.

I've had brides ask me to incorporate an old family heirloom into their bridal jewelry, and have been prompted recently to seek out specific circa pieces for other brides-to-be. The end result is always, without fail, a perfectly unique ensemble of jewelry that a bride can cherish forever. Also, if you're someone who wants all of the tiniest details of your wedding to be unique and specific, incorporating these vintage components guarantees there won't be anyone else wearing the same jewelry.

Once you make a decision about your personal wedding day jewels, consider picking out vintage jewelry for your bridesmaids. Gifting bridesmaids with jewelry for your wedding day is a great, economical way to thank them — you are going to ask them to accessorize regardless, why not give them the perfect jewels? So much more fun than the same old monogrammed cup or key chain!

Interested in finding your own vintage accessories? I suggest seeking out pieces from the 1940s and '50s — it seems to me that the women of these eras took great pride in their appearance, and the jewelry and findings from these generations certainly reflect that. Once you've found something fabulous, think about how to repurpose it — rhinestone brooches can be upcycled into focal points of pearl-strand necklaces, while sparkly bits from clip on earrings can be made into stunning hair pieces.